Charging stations sought

The municipality is applying for funding which, if approved, would provide electric vehicle charging stations in the community.

The stations, proposed for Wharton Street and Rotary Beach, would allow owners of electric vehicles the opportunity to charge their vehicles in Summerland.

The province is offering $2.7 million to build up a network of up to 570 electric charging stations across the province.

The funding, if approved, would cover three-quarters of the cost to purchase and install the stations, to a maximum of $4,000.

The funding is for Level 2 charging stations. Level 2 stations use a dedicated 240-volt current and can recharge the battery of an electric vehicle in six to eight hours or the battery of a hybrid-electric vehicle in three to four hours.

The cost of a station is estimated at $1,700 to $2,300.

Coun. Lloyd Christopherson said the stations would provide an important service for those with electric cars.

“With the charging stations, we’ll be on the grid,” he said.

If the funding is approved, the station must be installed by March 31, 2013. It must be kept in service for at least five years. The municipality would be required to use standard signage and share data on energy consumption.

The locations of the stations would be available on online maps or mobile applications.

Coun. Bruce Hallquist said a previous municipal council had considered introducing electric carts for in-town transportation.

The resolution to approve the grant application for the stations was carried unanimously. Coun. Orv Robson was not present at the meeting.